Wondering when I should change the timing belt.

2003 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT
85,000 MILES
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JGALST
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
I only put 4,000 to 5,000 miles a year on the car. The manual says 105,000 miles, but I'm wondering whether I should do earlier given the age of the car
Jan 2, 2012 at 5:00 PM
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SATURNTECH9
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 30,869 POSTS
Heres what i say unless the belt is dry rotting meaning cracking from time and being out in the elements then i would wait till the 105,000 miles.
Jan 2, 2012 at 5:02 PM
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F4I_GUY
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 3,302 POSTS
The longer the vehicle sits, the longer the timing belt is exposed to the elements. The more moisture builds up and ruins the belt. My recommendation as a certified VW technician.. replace the belt before it snaps and you need an engine. Which I have seen several times.
Jan 21, 2012 at 3:33 PM
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